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Out of the Cold update: Region develops plan to support people experiencing homelessness

Waterloo Region – In response to the recent closure of various Out of the Cold (OOTC) sites, the Region of Waterloo has developed a comprehensive response plan to support those affected by the closures.

The response plan was developed in consultation with a wide range of community groups, government partners, service providers and individuals throughout September and October. The plan focuses on:

1. Overnight shelter options: Over the 2014/2015 winter season, the YWCA K-W will offer drop-in overnight accommodation for up to 45 people. There will also be additional capacity at Charles Street Men’s Hostel, Cambridge Shelter, and ROOF as well as funding for motel overflow and to facilitate transportation to or between shelters.

2. Outreach, drop-in and meal options: Increasing capacity to meet people where they’re at and support access to a range of housing stability programs and services.

3. Supports for establishing housing stability: Increasing capacity to support people experiencing homelessness with complex issues to find and retain permanent housing.

4. Fostering community inclusion and engagement of people experiencing homelessness and the broader community.

5. Community-wide registry: This will ensure everyone experiencing homelessness is accounted for, to understand the big picture of need and level of vulnerability of people experiencing homelessness across Waterloo Region, and to plan and prioritize appropriate responses.

6. Communication: to ensure service providers, stakeholders and people experiencing homelessness are aware of the available supports.

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For more information, contact:

Van Vilaysinh, Manager of Social Planning, Region of Waterloo, 519-883-2238